2013 (4) Round Steelers Mock Draft

The 2013 NFL draft will be extremely important for the Pittsburgh Steelers. The team finds themselves in a position they are not very familiar with. Over the last 2 seasons, there has been a veteran exodus with very limited depth and/or talent waiting to adequately fill the vacancies. The Steelers need to draft playmakers this year who are capable of stepping in and contributing in year 1 and that mindset may alter the Steelers' traditional draft philosophy.

4 Round Mock Draft

Round 1

Chance Warmack, G, Alabama

The Steelers definitely have greater needs than offensive guard, but Warmack is too good to pass up at pick 17 as some analysists believe he is the best player in the draft. Warmack could start in year 1 and would be a tremendous upgrade in the running game. An interior line featuring David Decastro, Maurkice Pouncey, and Chance Warmack would immediately make the Steelers a force in the runnning game. The best defense is an offense that can assemble long scoring drives and Warmack would help do just that. The addition of Warmack would give the team 3 potential pro bowl linemen.

Round 2

Kevin Minter, ILB, LSU

Kevin Minter is a hard hitting, explosive, sure tackler who defenses the run exquisitely. The Steelers limited depth at ILB forced them to resign Larry Foote during the off-season and the team has a great need for a young and capable replacement. Minter was one of the most productive players on LSU's defense and his play would definitely translate to the Steelers 3-4 defense. Minter may not be available at his point in the 2nd round, but his draft stock has fallen recently and he would be a phenomenal pick at #48 as he could be a long-term, productive starter.

Round 3

Stedman Bailey, WR, WVU

At 5'10", Bailey lacks the ideal WR height. But what Bailey lacks in height, he makes up for it with superb route running, quickness, and great hands. His big play ability could help fill the void created when Mike Wallace left for Miami. Bailey projects to be a slot receiver at the next level and that could play to the Steelers offensive mindset. Bailey could be an extremely productive addition to the depleted WR corps. Opposing defenses will have their hands full trying to cover Antonio Brown, Emmanuel Sanders, Stedman Bailey, and Heath Miller (when he returns) on pasing downs.

Round 4

Tyrann Mathieu, CB, LSU

Mathieu is the most controversial prospect in the draft. His off-field rap sheet could give Charlie Sheen a run for his money. That said, Mathieu appears to be on the path to redemption and is conciously working to repair his image and is very focused on making football his #1 priority in life. Mathieu is a risk in round 4, but the reward far outweighs the risk. Mathieu's splash play ability, great instincts, durability, and overall play are superb enough to make him a top 5 or 10 draft pick without the off-field issues. The Steelers have a great need for playmakers in the secondary and Mathieu is worth the risk. If he pans out, he could be one of their greatest 4th round picks ever. His kick return ability is an added bonus as well.